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Speaking after the verdicts were returned, Det Con Paul Enticknap, from Plymouth police’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Abuse Investigation Team (SODAIT), praised the victims and their families.

He said: "Having personally experienced how difficult this has been I would like to recognise and acknowledge the strength in character and conviction the victims have shown in standing up to Charles Howeson.

"Our hard work has truly been recognised today. The guilty verdicts returned by the jury is an excellent result and means a sex offender has been brought to justice.

"By listening, investigating and supporting our victims, Charles Howeson's authority and liberty has finally been taken from him."

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The detective urged anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence to come forward.

He said: "This case clearly shows that even if you were a victim of a sexual offence many years ago, there is still a chance of bringing the offender to justice and at the same time preventing others from suffering the same abuse.

"If you would like to speak to someone about being a victim of historic sexual offences please contact the police or the NSPCC on the 24 hour helpline for confidential advice.

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The NSPCC said the case highlighted how vital it is that allegations of sexual offences are taken seriously and properly investigated.

An NSPCC spokesman for South West England said: “Howeson targeted vulnerable young people over a number of years, abusing his significant position of trust at a respected charity and his standing within the local community for his own sexual gratification.

“He may have believed he had gotten away with this appalling behaviour but thanks to the bravery of his victims, he now faces justice at last.

“This trial has raised concerns over how Howeson was allowed to continue working with children and young people, despite concerns being raised about his behaviour previously."

Childline, 0800 1111, is available to children 24/7 to offer confidential support and advice.

Meanwhile, adults concerned about a child’s welfare can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.